19 years or so ago I started playing the violin at my father's suggestion (insistence). I didn’t like to play violin when I was a kid. I didn’t like
going to violin lessons, I didn’t like going to violin recitals, I didn’t like
carrying my violin around all the time. I especially didn’t really (and still
don’t) understand musical theory and had no desire to learn. I mostly did it to appease my parents, who
were insistent on my musical education. Having just completed my 2nd
concert with the Lawyers Philharmonic yesterday at the Walt Disney Hall in
Downtown LA, I thought of things that I might say to my kid self about violin.
1.)
Don’t do anything just because your parents want
you to do it. Re-evaluate, consider where they are coming from, consider your
own desires, and then come to an informed, reasonable decision.
2.)
Once you’re old enough you can dictate your own
practice time and “when you feel like” playing. It’s a great feeling to have a
violin around when the mood strikes your fancy!
3.)
One day you will play violin voluntarily,
without any want of career aspirations or monetary gain, but simply because you
enjoy it.
4.)
You will come to appreciate the sense of musical
unity that comes with playing in an orchestra of amateur but advanced-level
musicians, one that can produce beautiful music that inspires.
5.)
You will get a sense of gratification from
inviting family and friends to a concert and proud of yourself, adding to your
self-esteem and your satisfaction that your parents are proud of you.
6.)
Unlike in middle school or high school where it
was more of a crutch (sign of a nerd) than a boon, later on in life in
professional circles you will be admired (at least from what people say) for
being able to play an instrument.
7.)
It is a great way to meet other
lawyers/musicians who share their interests.
8.)
You can play the Game of Thrones theme on your
violin at will.
9.)
Playing at a great concert hall like Walt Disney
Hall (shaped like a piano which accounts for the improved resonance) is an
honor and one of my life achievements, and you’ll be glad you were able to do
it. Twice.
All great reasons for having kept up with the violin and
still playing strong 10 years removed!
Fantasize on,
Robert Yan
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